Haun named new executive director of VHSL

CHARLOTTESVILLE – The Virginia High School League executive committee announced Wednesday the appointment of Dr. John “Billy” Haun as its new executive director.

Haun, who will begin his new position on July 1, replaces Ken Tilley, who is retiring effective June 30 after serving with the VHSL for 30 years, the last 22 years spent as executive director.

Haun is a graduate of Strasburg High School.

“I am very excited about the opportunity to serve as Executive Director of the Virginia High School League,” Haun stated in a press release from the VHSL. “I want to thank the Executive Committee for having the confidence in me to work with staff and the Executive Committee to continue providing outstanding service to Virginia’s students and the League membership. I also would like to thank Mr. Ken Tilley for his years of dedicated leadership to Virginia’s schools and students and wish him the best on his pending retirement.”

Haun currently serves as the chief academic officer/assistant superintendent for instruction of the Virginia Department of Education. He has previously served as an assistant superintendent, middle school and high school principal, assistant high school principal, teacher, athletic director and coach.

During his time as principal of Monticello High School, Haun served as chairman of the VHSL Jefferson District and chairman of VHSL Region II and spent two years on the VHSL executive committee in 2005-06 and 2006-07.

“As demonstrated through his highly successful career, Dr. Haun has a commitment to the VHSL’s core mission and a capacity to strategically guide the League forward,” Jim Stemple, chairman of the VHSL executive committee, is quoted in the release.

“Billy Haun certainly has strong credentials and qualities that fit the position well,” Tilley stated in the release. “I believe he has a good vision for the direction the VHSL should take in the future, and he can lead the membership in building upon the League’s strengths to meet the challenges ahead.”

Haun earned a Doctor of Education in administration and supervision from the University of Virginia, a Master of Science in education administration from Shenandoah University and a Bachelor of Arts in education from Virginia Tech.